Family Mental Health Support Network of Niagara

07/22/2025

🌿 Curious About Forest Therapy? Here’s Why You Should Try It

In Niagara, we are surrounded by some of the most beautiful natural spaces in Ontario. From forest trails and wetlands to riverbanks and escarpment views, the region offers endless opportunities to connect with nature. But how often do we truly slow down and take it all in?

Forest Therapy is a guided, sensory-based experience that helps you reconnect with the natural world and with yourself. It’s not about hiking or exercise. It’s about being present. With the help of a trained guide, you’ll receive gentle prompts that encourage you to move slowly, notice your surroundings, and awaken your senses.

In a world that moves fast, Forest Therapy helps you move with intention. Research shows that spending time in nature can reduce stress, improve sleep, boost your immune system, and lift your mood.

This summer, we’re offering a variety of Forest Therapy walks throughout Niagara. New evening sessions have also been added to help you unwind midweek.

🌲 Sunday, July 27 at 10:00 AM — Merritt Island, Welland
🌳 Wednesday, July 30 at 6:00 PM — Merritt Island, Welland
🌲 Sunday, August 3 at 10:00 AM — Heartland Forest, Niagara Falls
🌲 Sunday, August 10 at 10:00 AM — Merritt Island, Welland
🌳 Wednesday, August 13 at 6:00 PM — Glenridge Quarry, St. Catharines
🌲 Sunday, August 17 at 10:00 AM — Glenridge Quarry, St. Catharines
🌲 Sunday, August 24 at 10:00 AM — Malcolmson Eco Park, St. Catharines
🌳 Wednesday, August 27 at 6:00 PM — Merritt Island, Welland
🌲 Sunday, August 31 at 10:00 AM — Heartland Forest, Niagara Falls
🌲 Sunday, September 7 at 10:00 AM — Glenridge Quarry, St. Catharines
🌲 Sunday, September 14 at 10:00 AM — Merritt Island, Welland
🌲 Sunday, September 21 at 10:00 AM — Heartland Forest, Niagara Falls

To register, visit: www.familysupportniagara.com/programs/forest-therapy

Please dress for the weather and be prepared to sit, lean, stand, or walk slowly during the session. For questions, email Dan at dan@foresttherapyniagara.ca or call (905) 894-2333.

Forest Therapy Forest Therapy sessions announced each season Sessions are open for registration!Save your spot for our forest therapy walks, starting March 30th. To register for this walk, please fill out the form below or email Dan at dan@foresttherapyniagara.ca. Discover the healing power of Fore...

08/29/2024

🌟 New Workshops Starting Soon! 🌟

The Family Mental Health Support Network of Niagara is proud to offer our workshops to the community at no cost, helping to support and empower those in need.

Coping Skills for Families begins September 4th — a 7-week online workshop tailored for caregivers.

If you’re supporting a loved one with a mental health diagnosis, this workshop offers essential coping strategies and a deeper understanding of mental health, disorders, and substance abuse.

Forest Therapy kicks off September 12th — a gentle, mindful practice inspired by Japanese Shinrin-yoku (Forest Bathing).

Immerse your senses in nature, promoting mental and physical wellness. Each walk is about one kilometer over two hours, perfect for those seeking relaxation and connection with nature.

Don’t miss this chance to nurture your well-being and connect with others. Limited spots available—sign up now! 🌿

Visit www.familysupportniagara.com for more information & to reserve your spot.

08/28/2024

When one person in a family struggles with their mental health, it affects everyone. That's why United Way proudly supports the Family Mental Health Support Network of Niagara's counseling program, which directly benefited 64 local families last year.

08/10/2023

🌿 Embrace Nature's Healing Touch! Join Us for a Tranquil Forest Therapy Walk 🌳

🗓️ Date & Time: Saturday, August 12th at 4:00 PM
📍 Location: Shagbark Nature Park, Fort Erie, ON L0S 1N0

Unwind and rejuvenate with the ancient practice of Forest Therapy, inspired by Shinrin-yoku 🌲 Immerse your senses, find tranquility, and boost wellness.

🌼 Slow-paced, easy 1km walk
⏱️ 90-120 minutes of serene connection
⏰ Arrive by 3:50 PM to start on time

🌞 To register, email Dan at dan@dansilver.ca or call (905) 894-2333 to leave a message.

🌦️ Dress for the weather and consider bug repellent
🪑 Be ready to sit, stand, lean, or walk mindfully

Hurry! Limited to the first twelve registrants. Others will join the waitlist and be notified of future walks.

👉 Learn More & RSVP: https://www.familysupportniagara.com/workshops/forest-therapy-aug-12

05/27/2023

🚨 Final Call! 1 Day Left to Support Niagara's Kids! 🚨

Time is running out, but it's not too late to make a difference!⏰💫 Tomorrow, our team will be hitting the road, fueled by the support of incredible individuals like you. Together, we can create a brighter future for children who have experienced abuse, neglect, or violence. Don't miss this chance to contribute! Click the link below, and let's show them our unwavering support! 🌟🙏

The participants of the Amazing Race Niagara need your support! In our effort to promote broader grass roots community mental health supports in Niagara, the Family Mental Health Support Network of Niagara, Dan Silver Social Work Professional Corpo...

05/25/2023

⏳ Only 4 Days Left! Join Us in Supporting Niagara's Kids! ⏳

Hey there, wonderful people! We're down to the wire and need your support more than ever.⚡️🤝 In just 4 days, our team will be racing to raise funds for the Kristen French Child Advocacy Centre Niagara (KFCACN). Let's make a lasting impact on the lives of children who deserve love and healing. Every donation counts, so click the link below and be a part of this incredible journey! 🌈💛

The participants of the Amazing Race Niagara need your support! In our effort to promote broader grass roots community mental health supports in Niagara, the Family Mental Health Support Network of Niagara, Dan Silver Social Work Professional Corpo...

05/22/2023

🌟 Only 7 Days Left to Support Niagara's Kids! 🌟

Time is flying by, friends!⏰⚡️ In just 7 days, our team will be racing for a cause that's close to our hearts. We're raising funds for the Kristen French Child Advocacy Centre Niagara (KFCACN) to help children who have experienced abuse, neglect, or violence. Every donation makes a difference, so let's join forces and create a brighter future together! 🙌✨

Click the link below to donate today:

The participants of the Amazing Race Niagara need your support! In our effort to promote broader grass roots community mental health supports in Niagara, the Family Mental Health Support Network of Niagara, Dan Silver Social Work Professional Corpo...

05/20/2023

Introducing the Niagara Adventure Seekers: a team formed by the Family Mental Health Support Network of Niagara, Dan Silver Social Work Professional Corporation, and Holiday Homes Property Management Inc. We're on a mission to participate in the 2023 Amazing Race Niagara and make a positive impact in our community.

But wait, there's more! 🤩 We're not just racing for fun. We're racing for a cause that truly matters. By supporting us, you'll be contributing to the Kristen French Child Advocacy Centre Niagara (KFCACN). This incredible organization provides a safe space for children and youth who have experienced abuse, neglect, or violence.

🤗 We believe in the power of unity, and that's where you come in! We're reaching out to our fantastic community for your support. No matter how big or small, every donation counts towards promoting grassroots community mental health support in Niagara.

Ready to be a superhero in the lives of these deserving kids? 💪✨ Click the link below to make a difference today:
https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/kristen-french-child-advocacy-centre-niagara/p2p/amazingraceniagara2023/team/holiday-homes-property-management/member/kristen-french-child-advocacy-centre-fund-raiser-2023/

Together, let's create a brighter future and show these children that they are not alone. 💛🌈

The participants of the Amazing Race Niagara need your support! In our effort to promote broader grass roots community mental health supports in Niagara, the Family Mental Health Support Network of Niagara, Dan Silver Social Work Professional Corpo...

12/17/2022

Are you looking to find some peace and relaxation in your busy life? 🏃‍♂️ Our mindfulness and meditation program on Zoom 💻 might be just what you need!

🧘‍♂️ Join us for a 1 hour session of guided meditation and mindfulness techniques, designed to help you find inner calm and clarity. 🙏 Our experienced instructor will lead you through a variety of exercises that can be practiced from the comfort of your own home.

Starting January 8th, sessions run every Monday night at 7:00 PM and starting on January 12th, you can join us on Thursday afternoons at 2:00 PM!

Sign Up For Mondays ➡️ https://links.familysupportniagara.com/mindfulness-registration

Sign Up For Thursdays ➡️ https://links.familysupportniagara.com/thursday-mindfulness

Whether you're a seasoned meditation pro 🧘‍♀️ or a beginner 🙇‍♂️, this program is suitable for all levels. 🙌 Take some time for yourself and discover the benefits of mindfulness and meditation.

📝 Sign up now to reserve your spot in our next session. 🌟 We look forward to helping you find peace and relaxation! 🙏

12/17/2022

Come join us for our nature walking program! We travel around to new walking paths all over Niagara! 🏞️

Register for Nature Walking ➡️ https://links.familysupportniagara.com/naturewalking

🚶‍♀️ Get some fresh air and exercise while exploring the beauty of the great outdoors. 🌲 Our guide will lead you on a leisurely walk through some of the stunning natural surroundings of the Niagara Region.

🌳 Not only is nature walking a great way to get some physical activity, it has also been shown to have numerous mental and emotional benefits. 🧠 Walking in nature has been linked to reduced stress and anxiety, improved mood, and increased creativity and focus.

💪 So why wait? Sign up now and start enjoying the benefits of nature walking today! 🌿

Register for Nature Walking ➡️ https://links.familysupportniagara.com/naturewalking

12/17/2022

Are you caring for someone living with a mental health disorder and unsure of how to handle difficult situations? Do you struggle with balancing your own needs with those of your loved one? Are you looking for ways to cope with verbal and physical aggression? Do you wonder why people living with mental illness might turn to substance abuse?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you may want to register for our 5-Week Coping Skills workshop.

Join us as we explore topics such as:
▫️ Self Care & Coping Skills
▫️ Helping Skills
▫️ Communicating with our family member
▫️ Keys To Wellness
▫️ Community Resources
▫️ Motivational Helping Skills
▫️ Mental Illness and Substance Abuse

Sessions start on Wednesday, January 11th, 2023 at 7:00 PM, and will run weekly until February 8th, 2023.

Register for Coping Skills Workshop Here ➡️ https://links.familysupportniagara.com/copingskills-jan2023

Past participants have raved about the literature and information provided, the support and chance to share their lived experiences, as well as the opportunity to gain strategies to cope and understand their loved ones.

For more information, call 905-894-6808. 📞

Don't miss this chance to improve your coping skills & care for yourself and your loved one.

09/12/2022

How do you practice self-care? 🤔

It is important to prioritize your self-care. Take a moment out of your day and do something kind for yourself -- whether that be a walk, a long, warm shower, turning off your phone notifications or sitting down to meditate -- it's important that your self-care speaks to you and fills your cup!

Join us tonight at 7:00 PM for our regularly scheduled ✨Mindfulness & Meditation✨ session.

Register through the link below ⬇️
https://links.familysupportniagara.com/mindfulness-registration